Sri Lanka Begins Post-Mathews Era in Crucial WTC Clash Against Bangladesh

Sri Lanka

Colombo, Sri Lanka: Following a draw in the first Test in Galle, the focus shifts to Colombo’s SSC for a crucial World Test Championship (WTC) encounter between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. With upcoming home series against formidable opponents like India and South Africa, Sri Lanka is under pressure to secure valuable WTC points against a lower-ranked Bangladesh side. The visitors, having come close to victory in Galle, arrive in Colombo with renewed belief and the potential return of key all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz.

This Test marks the beginning of Sri Lanka’s post-Angelo Mathews era, and the search for his successor is now in full swing. Spin-bowling all-rounder Sonal Dinusha is the likely first candidate to fill the void, with his slow left-arm spin offering a handy option, especially in home conditions. Should Sri Lanka opt for a spin-heavy attack alongside Prabath Jayasuriya, other batting options like Pavan Rathnayake, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, or Oshada Fernando could come into consideration.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh welcomes back Mehidy Hasan Miraz after he missed the first Test due to fever. Despite his status as the world’s No. 2-ranked all-rounder, his replacement, Nayeem Hasan, was arguably the most impressive bowler in the previous match, creating a selection dilemma.


Pitch Conditions and Team Combinations

With the SSC surface expected to be dry and batter-friendly, both teams are grappling with their ideal combinations. Sri Lanka’s captain, Dhananjaya de Silva, hinted at the possibility of playing three seamers, potentially opening the door for a debut for Isitha Wijesundara. If Bangladesh mirrors this strategy, it could mean Nayeem Hasan misses out despite his strong performance. However, Bangladesh possesses ample seam options with Khaled Ahmed and Ebadot Hossain available, allowing them to consider a three-pronged spin attack if desired. Given Ebadot’s recent return from injury, Khaled Ahmed might get the nod due to his proficiency with the new ball.


Middle Order Shake-Up and Player Focus

Mathews’ retirement has triggered Sri Lanka’s first significant Test middle-order shake-up in over a decade. Captain Dhananjaya de Silva (DDS) is set to move up to the crucial No. 4 position, a spot he has occupied only six times previously, averaging 20.33. Known for his crisis-management abilities in the lower order, Sri Lanka will be hoping he brings that same composure to his new, more prominent role.

For Bangladesh, Anamul Haque faces pressure to deliver on a batter-friendly SSC track. His Test career has been inconsistent, with a brief comeback in April against Zimbabwe and scores of 0 and 4 in the Galle Test. At 32, this series presents a crucial opportunity for him to secure his place.


Probable Line-ups

Sri Lanka (probable):

  1. Pathum Nissanka
  2. Lahiru Udara
  3. Dinesh Chandimal
  4. Dhananjaya de Silva (capt)
  5. Kamindu Mendis
  6. Sonal Dinusha
  7. Kusal Mendis (wk)
  8. Prabath Jayasuriya
  9. Vishwa Fernando
  10. Kasun Rajitha/Isitha Wijesundara
  11. Asitha Fernando

Bangladesh (probable):

  1. Shadman Islam
  2. Anamul Haque
  3. Mominul Haque
  4. Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt)
  5. Mushfiqur Rahim
  6. Jaker Ali (wk)
  7. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
  8. Nayeem Hasan/Khaled Ahmed/Ebadot Hossain
  9. Taijul Islam
  10. Nahid Rana
  11. Hasan Mahmud

Bangladesh will have to decide how to reintroduce the returning Mehidy and whether to opt for three seamers or an additional spinner. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto, despite a finger injury in training, is expected to play.

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